Online MSW Programs in Indiana
After pursuing social work studies at the undergraduate or graduate level in Indiana, students will be qualified to get their Indiana social work license. Indiana social work falls into three main categories: Licensed Bachelor Social Workers (LBSW), Licensed Social Workers (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Workers (LCSW). While the LBSW is for students with a bachelor’s degree, the LSW and LCSW are for students with at least a master’s degree. Each of these roles has a slightly different function, but their overall goal is to provide mental, emotional, physical, and financial support services to people in the community.
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Career Steps LBSW/LSW LCSW ReciprocityCSWE Accredited Online MSW Programs in Indiana
| School | Annual Tuition | Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis | $27,992 | Indianapolis |
| Indiana Wesleyan University Online | $11,511 | Marion |
Becoming a Social Worker in Indiana
All professionals seeking a social work license must have a college degree in social work, but the requirements vary depending on the level desired. In Indiana, the
LBSWs and LSWs in Indiana
In order to become an LBSW, or licensed baccalaureate social worker, and gain the first level of licensure, individuals must first complete an approved Bachelor of Social Work. They work under supervision performing general social work duties, such as consulting, researching, or managing cases for their supervisors. However, they cannot diagnose, perform psychotherapy, or have their own private practice.
In order to become an LSW, or licensed social worker, individuals must graduate with a Master of Social Work (MSW). LSWs are required to work under a LCSW, or as part of an organization. They cannot diagnose anyone and often work at all levels of government or with a nonprofit to advocate reform, promote human rights, and support communities.
Then, the trajectory of either licensure applicant is primarily the same:
Each applicant must download and submit the BHHS Licensing Board’s . The application and background check each require fees as well.
Next, the applicant will have to apply for approval to take the Association of Social Workers Board’s bachelor's-level or master's-level , depending on the level of licensure being applied for. The former covers the basic generalist practice of baccalaureate social work, while the latter covers the practice of LSWs, including the application of specialized knowledge and advanced practice skills. Once an applicant has been approved by the Board, they have one calendar year to take the exam.
Licenses must be renewed every two years for a small renewal fee.
LCSW in Indiana
LCSWs, or licensed clinical social workers, work as leaders and provide direct care to clients. They perform assessments, direct therapies, supervise LBSWs, and build treatment plans. LCSWs in Indiana must have an MSW and two years (or comparable) experience in nonclinical settings.
In Indiana, the LCSW is one of the most rigorous certifications to obtain. It requires an .
Applicants must have completed the following before they can apply to take the clinical-level :
- A LSW certification (before they can apply for their LCSW certification)
- Two years of full-time, paid, supervised work experience after receiving their MSW degree
- The Association of Social Work Boards Clinical level exam
- Verification of Supervision form
- Verification Experience form
- Clinical Coursework form
- Specific MSW clinical coursework that will better prepare them for practice
Social Work License Reciprocity in Indiana
Indiana social work laws support reciprocity for a social work license held in another state. Out-of-state professionals wishing to become a social worker in Indiana must comply with expectations set by the Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Service Licensing Board. LSW, LMSW, and LCSW candidates must submit applications for reciprocated licensure, as well as prove official licensure in the state they are coming from, including verification of passage of an applicable Association of Social Work Board examination. They cannot have any pending disciplinary hearings and must pay a fee to have their application processed.
Licensing Renewal and Continuing Education Information
All Indiana social work licenses must be renewed between April 1 and March 31 on every even-numbered year. In order for LSWs, LMSWs, and LCSWs to maintain their social work license, they must complete 40 continuing education credits (CEUs) per renewal cycle. This can be done online through the National Association of Social Work’s . Both the LSW and LCSW require the completion of a master's in social work program, so pursuing this degree can help you meet your career goals.
What's the Difference Between LCSW and MSW?
Individuals with a MSW can apply to become an LCSW. Alone, an MSW is required to earn a LSW. However, LSWs can’t diagnose clients or own private practices. If you have an MSW, you can gain a few years of practical experience and work to earn your LCSW.